Another irresistible track is the first (and best known) single off the album, "Don't be A Fool." Again, the beat may prominently figure in the song, but Carriere's singing remains front and center. "Don't be a fool/ Don't throw your life away," she cautions. While "Don't be A Fool" may have enticed many to the dance floor, it remains an intelligent, well-crafted piece of R&B.
While uptempo songs may dominate Look How Long, two ballads demonstrate Loose Ends' range. "Love Controversy Part 1" smoothly addresses how to keep love alive, while the too short "Symptoms of Love" showcases the trio's harmonies, a sensual beat and minimal arrangement cushioning their vocals. "Hold Tight" holds a midtempo groove, again allowing all three members to croon over the refrain.
Jazz and dance intersect on cuts like "Try My Love," which features some distinctive piano riffs and McIntosh's silky singing gliding over a looped guitar riff, the thumping beat recalling a Tony! Toni! Toné record. "I Don't Need to Love," a should-have-been-hit, features McIntosh scatting over a swift, bass-driven tempo. Piano accents, beautiful vocal interplay, and jazz-influenced chord changes make the track even more distinctive. Like the rest of Look How Long, the song exemplifies Loose Ends' sophisticated, polished brand of 1980s and 1990s soul.
Unfortunately, Look How Long became Loose Ends' finale; McIntosh went on to produce artists such as Caron Wheeler (Soul II Soul). In 1998, Loose Ends reunited to record a single, "Take Your Time," with producer, DJ, and rapper Pete Rock. McIntosh remains active as a producer and artist.
While "Hanging on A String" may ultimately become Loose Ends' legacy, Look How Long is a lost New Jack Swing gem. If Loose Ends had to dissolve their partnership, at least they went out on a memorable, well-crafted, smartly arranged note.
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